Blood clots are potentially very serious complications of MAKOplasty. If a blood clot breaks off from the surgical site and moves to the heart or lungs, the clot can be deadly, explains Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute. To prevent clot formation, patients use elastic stockings, compression devices and anticoagulation medication. Patients also should start moving the affected joint soon after surgery. Symptoms of dangerous blood clots include persistent leg swelling, calf warmth or redness, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Wound, respiratory or urinary infections sometimes occur following surgery, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute reports. Signs of infection include swelling of the incision, high temperature and increased pain. Infections are typically treated with antibiotics, says Dr. Andrew Pearle. However, in certain instances, surgery is required to clear away the infection. In a few cases, the infection is uncontrollable unless the knee replacement is removed.

Sometimes infection of the knee joint occurs after procedures such as dental work, colonoscopy and surgery, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute discloses. Preventative antibiotics are often prescribed before such work begins.